Washington, D.C. and the Civil War Battlefields

Travel back to a time when America was divided by North and South. Gain a deeper understanding of our history as you follow the paths of Civil War soldiers with visits to national parks and battlefields. Then consider how America has evolved as you explore significant sites and monuments in our nation’s capital.

Day 1: Washington, D.C.

Arrive in Washington, D.C.

Explore Washington, D.C. highlights:

Photo stop at the White House

Photo stop at the Washington Monument

WWII Memorial

Visit the Smithsonian museum of your choice, which may include:

National Air and Space Museum

National Museum of Natural History

National Museum of African Art

National Museum of American History

Take a guided night tour of Washington, D.C.

Lincoln Memorial

Korean War Veterans Memorial

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Day 2: Manassas • Antietam

Visit Manassas National Battlefield Park, site of the Battle of Bull Run

Visit Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Visit Antietam National Battlefield, site of the Civil War's deadliest single day

Travel to Gettysburg

Day 3: Gettysburg • Washington, D.C.

Take a guided tour of Gettysburg National Military Park

Visit the Gettysburg Museum, Visitor Center and Cyclorama Experience

Return to Washington, D.C.

Visit Ford's Theatre and Petersen House

Day 4: Washington, D.C.

Visit Arlington National Cemetery

Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Kennedy gravesites

Make a photo stop at the Marine Corps War Memorial

Visit Mount Vernon

Mansion and grounds

Museum and education center

George Washington's tomb

Enjoy an evening activity

Day 5: Washington, D.C.

See the U.S. Capitol and Visitor Center

Photo stop at the Library of Congress and the U.S. Supreme Court

Explore the Tidal Basin

FDR Memorial

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Jefferson Memorial

Depart for home

Experience even more

Day 5: Washington, D.C. • Richmond

See the U.S. Capitol and Visitor Center

Photo stop at the Library of Congress and the U.S. Supreme Court

Explore the Tidal Basin

FDR Memorial

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Jefferson Memorial

Visit the National Archives

Travel to Richmond

Day 6: Richmond

Visit Richmond National Battlefield Park

Tredegar Iron Works

Cold Harbor Battlefield

Visit the Museum of the Confederacy and take a tour of the Confederate White House